Saudi Arabia reported an estimated 110 million tons of uranium-bearing ore in the Medina region as the kingdom advances efforts to develop nuclear power and diversify its energy mix. Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman announced the estimate at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) 70th General Conference in Vienna. He said Saudi Arabia is continuing uranium exploration while also examining the potential recovery of uranium as a byproduct of fertiliser production.
Ore Contains Uranium and Rare-Earth Elements
According to Arab News, Abdulaziz said geological studies identified an estimated 110 million tonnes of ore containing significant concentrations of rare-earth elements, particularly heavy rare-earth elements, along with promising concentrations of uranium. Uranium-bearing ore consists of rock or mineral material that contains naturally occurring uranium. However, the reported quantity refers to the ore itself and not to 110 million tonnes of pure uranium.
Further Assessment Needed for Uranium Recovery
The reported resource does not, by itself, establish how much uranium Saudi Arabia could ultimately recover. Several factors will determine the potential of the deposit, including uranium concentration, mineral composition, recovery rates and the cost of developing the resource. Therefore, further exploration, testing and technical assessment will be required to establish the quantity of recoverable uranium and whether commercial production would be viable.
Discovery Supports Saudi Arabia’s Nuclear Ambitions
The reported discovery comes as Saudi Arabia seeks to diversify its energy mix and develop nuclear power alongside its established oil and gas sector. Domestic uranium resources could potentially support the kingdom’s efforts to develop capabilities across the nuclear fuel cycle. However, the commercial potential of the reported resource remains uncertain until further technical and economic assessments establish the amount of recoverable uranium. As reported by newarab.com, the development also highlights Saudi Arabia’s broader interest in uranium exploration, rare-earth resources and domestic nuclear fuel capabilities as it pursues long-term energy diversification.
